“The Great Ocean Road is one of the most scenic roads in our country. It is an iconic piece of regional infrastructure, and it urgently needs upgrading in order to boost the local economy, support the tourism industry and improve safety for motorists. It is important that the Great Ocean Road is safe and reliable,” Mr Abbott said.

Recognising the national significance of the Great Ocean Road, Mr Mulder said the Victorian Coalition government would provide an additional $25 million over five years if matched by the federal government.

“We're thrilled the federal Coalition also recognises the national importance of the Great Ocean Road. It is an amazing drawcard for tourists, but it is also as dear to our hearts as Australians as the Great Barrier Reef,” Mr Mulder said.

“Our commitment will deliver a significant upgrade, including maintenance of bridges and retaining walls, improvements to road safety for motorists and resurfacing works,” Mr Abbott said.

“This will ensure that the Great Ocean Road continues to be the gateway to the Surf Coast and a lifeline for tourism and small business in south-western Victoria. Importantly, the Coalition's commitment will help to ensure the Great Ocean Road is safer and capable of handling increasing traffic volumes,” Mr Mulder said.

“I pay tribute to our candidate in Corangamite, Sarah Henderson, for advocating for this project. Along with Dan Tehan, the federal member for Wannon, and Peter Read, our candidate for Corio, Sarah is a strong advocate for the region and wants to create more opportunities for the south-west. Part of this is building the infrastructure that the region needs - including the much-needed upgrade of the Great Ocean Road,” Mr Abbott said.

The Coalition will deliver the infrastructure that our nation needs so that people spend less time in traffic and more time with their families, businesses can get their goods and services to market faster, and our export and tourism industries can be more competitive.

“If elected, I want to be known as the infrastructure prime minister, and building the infrastructure of the future - such as upgrading the iconic Great Ocean Road - is part of our plan to build a stronger Australia and a better future for all,” Mr Abbott concluded.

The above news item is based on a Coalition media release. Click here to read the Coalition policy on upgrading the Great Ocean Road, as released by Opposition Leader the Hon Tony Abbott MP.

Responsibility for content on this site - including political comment during state and federal election campaign periods - is taken by G21 – Geelong Region Alliance Chief Executive Officer Elaine Carbines, 131 Myers Street, Geelong 3220, phone 03 5227 4000.

G21 Pillars

About G21

G21 is the formal alliance of government, business and community organisations working together to improve the lives of people within the Geelong region across five member municipalities – Colac Otway, Golden Plains, Greater Geelong, Queenscliffe and Surf Coast.